The Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America is actively encouraging U.S. citizens living in Israel to participate in the upcoming November election by voting absentee. Nathan Diament, the executive director of public policy for the organization, emphasized the importance of every American citizen exercising their right to vote, especially in light of the challenges faced by Israel in recent times. Diament pointed out that the U.S. is a crucial ally to Israel, and American citizens living in the country can have a significant impact on the election outcomes in key battleground states like Pennsylvania.
The organization has collaborated with the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem and Yeshiva University to provide guidance to young Americans in Israel on how to request and submit their absentee ballots. Diament highlighted that even a small shift in the American Jewish vote in states like Pennsylvania could make a substantial difference in the election results. He mentioned that his own son is currently among the Jewish American students in Israel for their gap year.
In addition to targeting young Americans in Israel, the Orthodox Union is also working on educational resources for the hundreds of thousands of Jewish American immigrants who have permanently relocated to Israel. The deadline to request absentee ballots is approaching, and the organization is urging citizens to take action promptly to ensure their votes are counted.
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem has advised Americans living abroad to check their voter registration and utilize the absentee ballot option if they cannot vote in person. The embassy highlighted the impact that absentee voters can have on election outcomes, citing past instances where federal elections were decided by a margin smaller than the number of absentee ballots cast.
Jeremy Kazzaz, the executive director of the Beacon Coalition, emphasized the importance of sending in absentee ballots early to avoid delays in the mail system, especially during the election season. He recommended that citizens traveling out of state or abroad during the election period should plan ahead and submit their ballots as soon as possible.
Diament mentioned that polling data indicates a potential shift in support among American Jews towards Republican candidate Donald Trump, particularly following the terrorist attacks in October 2023. He attributed this change to rising antisemitism in the U.S. and the need for American Jews to hold government officials accountable for protecting their rights.
Overall, the efforts by the Orthodox Union and other Jewish organizations aim to ensure that American citizens in Israel have the opportunity to make their voices heard in the upcoming election. By facilitating the absentee voting process and raising awareness about the impact of their votes, these organizations are working towards increased civic engagement and representation for the Jewish American community.